Doane University

What you'll study

This programme combines Doane’s general education curriculum with a sequence of teacher education courses, methods classes tailored to specific levels or subjects, and sustained clinical experiences in local schools. Core topics include foundations of education, human growth and development, assessment and evaluation, classroom management, instructional design, and educational psychology.

• Subject-specific methods: Pedagogy and curriculum methods aligned to elementary, middle, or secondary levels and to particular content areas such as mathematics, science, English/language arts, social studies, or the arts.
• Literacy and numeracy instruction: Strategies for teaching reading, writing and mathematics across grade levels, with emphasis on differentiation and intervention.
• Inclusive and special education: Principles of inclusive practice, behaviour support, adaptations and co-teaching models for diverse learners.
• Assessment and data use: Formative and summative assessment techniques, data-driven instruction and progress monitoring.
• Clinical practice: Multiple supervised field placements culminating in a full-time student teaching placement and a professional portfolio or capstone project.
• Professional development: Coursework and seminars focused on reflective practice, continuing professional growth, collaborative leadership and school improvement.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a secondary-school qualification equivalent to a US high school diploma and to meet Doane University’s admission standards. Typical programme-specific expectations include a demonstrated academic record, a disclosed interest in teaching, and preparation in relevant subject areas for secondary-level candidates.

• Official transcripts from secondary education (and any prior tertiary study where applicable).
• Personal statement or teaching statement outlining motivation for a career in education.
• One or more academic or professional references, ideally addressing suitability to work with children and young people.
• For certain specialisms, prerequisite coursework in the subject area may be required.
• Admission to the teacher education programme typically requires a background check, documentation of immunisations as required by placement partners, and meeting any state-mandated requirements for clinical experience.
• Progression through the programme generally involves meeting minimum GPA and skills-based benchmarks and successful performance in practicum settings.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for initial teacher licensure and classroom positions at the level or in the subject area they specialised in, including early childhood, elementary, middle grades and secondary schools. The programme’s emphasis on professional development equips candidates for roles beyond the classroom as they progress.

• Classroom teacher (elementary, middle, secondary) in public or independent schools.
• Special education teacher or intervention specialist.
• Instructional coach, curriculum coordinator or mentor teacher focused on teacher development.
• School-based roles such as grade-level leader, department chair or student support coordinator.
• Educational consultant, professional development provider, or roles in non-profit and community education organisations.
• Pathways to graduate study in education, leadership or specialised fields such as literacy or special education.

Why study at Doane University

Doane offers a learner-centred teacher education experience with small classes, individualised mentoring and extensive school partnerships across the region. The programme emphasises early and continuous clinical experience so students apply methods and classroom management strategies in real settings while receiving focused feedback from university supervisors and experienced mentor teachers.

Students benefit from Doane’s commitment to reflective practice and professional growth, resources for portfolio development, and support navigating state licensure requirements. The combination of subject-specific methods, practicum opportunities and a culture of collaborative professional development makes this programme practical for those seeking a grounded start to a teaching career and ongoing advancement within the education profession.